Merebank residents celebrate Uncle Frank on his 100th birthday
The great-grandfather to 11 looks forward to his birthday celebration with family and friends on April 29.
MEREBANK residents were thrilled to have been a part of the centenial birthday celebration of Subrayen Lutchman Perumal Naicker, fondly known as Frank, and honoured him at a special event held at St Mary’s Primary School, recently.
Naicker, who still actively involved in the Merebank Ratepayers Association, is a health fanatic and worked in the hotel industry for most of his life. After spending 37 years at Perthshire Hotel, he went on to work as a driver for Clairwood Hospital, where he retired at the age of 60.
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Naicker, who shared four children with his late wife, Rathamani, continued to work as a private driver after he retired and drove his vehicle until it was stolen, when he was 85-year-old.
Believing that healthy living plays a major role in one’s life, Naicker fondly remembers waking up early everyday and promptly exercising at 04:00.
He was a member of the gym, where he practised judo and karate, earning a black belt. Naicker remains a diehard card player who still enjoys beating his opponents at thunee and never fails to amaze youngsters with karate demonstrations.
Naicker is well known for always carrying a pack of cards in his pocket. In his spare time, he enjoys engaging in finding the missing pieces in his family tree and making connection with the host of friends he has made throughout his life.
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The grandfather of eight was a member of the Hillside Service Group at Bidar Road Temple and spent many hours of at the gym. He is presently a member of the Sai Centre in Isipingo and blames the gradual restrictions to his movement due to aging from prevents him to venture out and work with more organisations.
Some of his fondest memories include a pilgrimage to India, visiting his father’s birthplace in Port Louis, Mauritius, and spending six months vacation in Canada while experiencing snowfall.
Befriending South African business magnate and founder of the Sun International group of hotels, Sol Kersener, when he stayed at the hotel Naicker was working for remains at the top of his most cherished memories.
The great-grandfather to 11 looks forward to his birthday celebration with family and friends on April 29.
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